- Use courtesy and common sense in all electronic communications.
- Consider what you write. Electronic communications are a permanent record and can be easily retrieved.
- Do not share or forward others' electronic communications without permission.
- When responding to another's message, don't quote back an entire message. Delete the excess ("snip") and make your comments at the very top before starting the quotes.
- DON'T TYPE IN ALL CAPS. Caps are hard to read and considered "shouting.”
- Avoid sarcasm. It is easily misunderstood.
- Avoid correcting others' grammar, punctuation, and spelling unless it is necessary to clarify discussion.
- Avoid flaming. A "flame" is an abusive, harassing or bigoted message that attacks an author of a message.
- Respect the opinions of others and be sensitive to the diverse nature of people. Keep in mind that although you cannot "see" others, you can show respect for individual differences. Diversity issues may include the following and others: race, ethnicity, religion, disabilities, gender, sexual orientation, age, social class, marital status, and urban vs. rural dwellers.